On February 20, Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky issued an updated report on the condition of 2009 Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra. Now a broodmare at Stonestreet Farms outside Lexington, she was hospitalized a week ago tonight for complications following the birth of her healthy filly foal.

Here's the latest on the filly who won our hearts when she raced against colts her age, and older male horses, in one of the most exciting three-year-old campaigns in recent racing history:

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"Rachel Alexandra continues to face her recovery from abdominal surgery as a result of foaling complications with the same courage and determination that made her a champion on the track.

"Her attending veterinarians at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, Dr. Brett Woodie and Dr. Bonnie Barr, are pleased with her progress, which has included several short walks a day and an improved appetite this week.

"As her diet becomes more normal, Dr. Woodie is encouraged that her gastro-intestinal function is improving, as well as her ?feisty' attitude.

"Her medical team completed the course of post-surgery abdominal lavages on Tuesday and the two drains placed in her abdomen were removed.

"While the road towards recovery remains long with many hurdles to overcome, Stonestreet's Barbara Banke and Rachel's team at Rood & Riddle are both inspired by her strength and happy with her progress in the week following surgery.

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"Following the ?no news is good news' theme, please expect the next official update on her condition on Saturday, February 23rd, unless her condition changes."